Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
